Benue killings: First Lady donates N1bn for victims of herdsmen attacks

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Tuesday paid a condolence visit to Makurdi, the Benue State capital, where she expressed deep concern over the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the region.

Speaking during her visit, Senator Tinubu described the living conditions of displaced individuals as “worrisome and hellish,” calling for urgent action to alleviate their suffering.

She said her visit was not only to sympathize with the affected communities but also to reflect on the state of humanity and the challenges facing vulnerable populations.

The First Lady acknowledged Benue State’s vital role in national development, particularly in the area of food security, and urged for a swift resolution to the persistent insecurity plaguing Central Nigeria, with a specific emphasis on restoring peace in Benue.

She emphasised the importance of peace and dialogue, stating that the diversity of Nigeria was designed to help the nation grow and not to divide the people.

She said, “Nigeria is a nation of deep complexity. Ethnicity, religion, and culture all have their place, but they must not become walls between us. They should instead be bridges of understanding.”

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The First Lady also called for unity and solidarity among the people to combat the senseless killings that have continued to occur despite spirited efforts.

She donated ₦1 billion to the victims of displaced communities in Benue State and also provided relief materials to help alleviate the suffering of the displaced persons.

According to her, “We are here today to reflect on the life of the world and the state of humanity.

“What is most worrisome is that many people are living in conditions so harsh that they can only be described as hellish. And yet, these people are human beings like us.

“When faith is lost, when family bonds are broken, when life no longer carries the hope it once did, everything changes. Every society must decide what it will serve — because no nation can serve two masters. There must be a choice between what builds and what destroys, between people and the structures that either uplift or oppress them.

“We speak of teachings — lessons about peace, love, and how to live with one another. These are not abstract ideals. They are necessities. Dialogue and patience remain the best solutions wherever conflict exists.

“But often, we hesitate. We ask ourselves: Why do I need to act? Why do I need to speak? And so doors remain closed. Teachers go unheard. People are left without guidance on how to move forward — how to heal.”

In his speech, the State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, stated that the state currently hosts over 1.5 million Internally Displaced Persons spread across official camps and host communities.

He said, “The recent attacks have led to the emergence of new IDP camps at the International Market, Makurdi, where over 3,160 persons, mainly women and children, as well as at NKST Primary School, Naka, where 18,592 persons are camped seeking refuge under dire conditions. These are families who have lost their homes, farmlands, livelihoods and loved ones to violent invasions.”

The Governor appreciated the First Lady for her specific concern for the victims of attacks in the state and her willingness to stand with them in their moment of need.

“Your visit today is not just symbolic, it is impactful and healing,” Alia said.

The Governor explained that though the Yelewata crisis was alarming, the incidence in Naka had created a much bigger humanitarian crisis that needed global attention and support.

“I urge the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and other well-spirited individuals and organisations to visit Naka and lend a hand of support as we cannot do this alone as a state,” Governor Alia pleaded.

The Governor reiterated his call for the establishment of state police and the domestication of security strategies across the country.

He said, “The current security architecture has not proven sufficient in curbing the incessant attacks on our communities. A decentralised, locally rooted policing structure will greatly enhance intelligence gathering, swift response, and accountability. It is time for Nigeria to embrace state police as a practical and necessary step towards securing lives, property, and peace across the nation.”